Logan Personal Injury Attorneys

Life can be abruptly disrupted by accidents and injuries. In such tough periods, personal injury lawyers are invaluable allies. They advocate for those affected by negligence, helping them obtain proper compensation. This article explores the crucial role personal injury lawyers play in guiding individuals through their claims and aiding in recovery.

Iowa Bicycle Laws: Cars and Cyclists Must Abide!

Cycling is a popular activity in Iowa, whether for transportation, recreation, or exercise. It's crucial for both cyclists and motorists to understand and follow Iowa's bicycle laws to ensure safety and compliance. Here is an overview of the essential bicycle laws in Iowa that everyone must abide by, regardless of whether they are on two wheels or four.

Passing on the Left

Similar to motor vehicles, cyclists are required to pass on the left when overtaking another vehicle. Before passing, a cyclist must move into the left lane after ensuring it is safe to do so. Once the pass is complete, the cyclist should return to the right lane.

Riding With Traffic

Cyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic. Riding against traffic is illegal and increases the risk of a head-on collision, which can be deadly.

Using Lights in Low Visibility

Iowa law mandates that bicycles used after sunset or before sunrise must have a front lamp emitting a white light and a red light or reflector on the rear. These lights must be visible from at least 300 feet. Using lights not only helps cyclists see the road but also makes them visible to other road users.

Stopping for School Buses

Cyclists must stop for school buses that have their stop signs displayed or lights flashing, just as motor vehicles do. Failure to stop can result in a traffic citation.

Hand and Arm Signals

Cyclists must use proper hand and arm signals to indicate their intentions to turn or stop. The standard signals are:
- Left turn: left arm extended horizontally
- Right turn: left arm bent upward at the elbow
- Slow down/stop: left arm bent downward at the elbow

Reporting Traffic Crashes

Cyclists are required to report all traffic crashes and exchange information with the other parties involved, similar to the obligations of motorists.

Prohibited Areas for Cycling

Bicycles are not permitted on interstates and certain highways for safety reasons. Additionally, many cities in Iowa prohibit cycling on sidewalks.

Filing a Claim for a Head Injury from a Bike Accident

Determining Liability

In Iowa, the party at fault for an accident is responsible for the resulting damages. In the case of a bicycle accident, the motorist involved is often found liable. To support a claim, you need evidence such as police reports, physical evidence from the scene, and witness testimonies.

Proving the Injury Connection

To claim compensation, you must prove that your head injury resulted directly from the accident. This can involve medical records and expert testimony.

Calculating Compensation

The amount of compensation depends on the extent of injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and whether you were partly at fault. For example, if you were riding at night without required lights, your compensation might be reduced.

Negotiating and Legal Actions

If an insurance settlement is insufficient, you have the right to negotiate for a higher amount or file a lawsuit. Iowa law allows two years from the date of the accident to file a claim.

Common Defenses Drivers Use in Bike Accident Claims

Helmet Use

Drivers may argue that the cyclist is partly at fault for their injuries due to not wearing a helmet. While helmet use can influence the severity of injuries, it doesn’t necessarily absolve the driver of liability.

Traffic Violations

Drivers might claim that the cyclist was not following traffic rules, such as speeding or not stopping at signals, to reduce their own liability.

Distraction

A common defense is that the cyclist was distracted, for example, by using headphones or a phone, contributing to the accident.

Visibility Issues

Drivers often argue they couldn’t see the cyclist, especially if the cyclist lacked proper lighting or was wearing dark clothing at night.

We Are Here To Help

Remember, you are not alone in recovering from your injuries. We have helped thousands of Iowans through their physical, emotional, and financial recoveries. If you have questions about what you are going through, feel free to call our office for your confidential injury conference. We will take the time to listen to you and give you our advice concerning your injury matter at no cost or risk to you.

Free Book at No Cost 

If you are not ready to speak with an attorney yet but would like to learn more about Iowa injury cases including tips about how you can avoid making common costly mistakes request a copy of our Iowa Personal Injury book which includes 14 myths about Iowa injury cases and 5 things to know before hiring an attorney.

If you have specific questions about your injury matter feel free to call our office to speak with our Injury team at 641-792-3595 or use our Chat feature by clicking here 24 hours a day/7 days per week. Your information will remain confidential and there is no cost or obligation.